DENVER - Barbara Jackson of Tucson, Ariz., was named the 2007 Outstanding CattleWoman of the Year during the American National CattleWomen’s awards reception held February 7 at the Cattle Industry Annual Convention in Reno. Purina Mills sponsored the award.

Ms. Jackson was nominated by the Arizona CowBelles, who say that, “Barbara lives the mission statement” of the American National CattleWomen. The nomination added:

“Barbara shares her passion for the U.S. Beef Industry, encourages and helps to equip fellow cattlewomen to support and promote the beef industry. She is professional - a progressive thinker and is always the teacher, advisor and mentor.She brings energy, straight talk and logical views of how promotion and education activities can make the most of members’ time, money and energy.”

Those who nominated Barbara also admire her dedication to the beef industry - not only as a participant through the business she and her husband own, Animal Health Express - but as a leader promoting state, regional and national professional involvement. As a mentor, many Arizona Cowbelles were encouraged to get involved in a project, an office or a region meeting and then pushed to do more.

One of her fellow Arizona CowBelles added, “She is there when I have a question or an idea. She is there to advise me and to set me straight, should the need arise”.

Barbara has held all offices in her local and state cattlewomen organization. She has served on various state and national committees including: Nominating, Budget & Finance; Bylaws & Points of Policy; Resolutions; and Beef Promotion. Barbara served as co-chair of the 2003 National Beef Cook-off® and as a member of the Advisory Committee in the restructure of ANCW.

Barbara’s mother, Pat Stevenson, a former ANCW president, was also very active in the beef industry.

“Part of my motivation for involvement is in tribute to her,” Barbara said.